Sunday, January 4, 2009

ChicAgo's Greatest Hits?


The Stillwater Steam…Return to Cub glory…a century later?
At first glance one has to wonder about Rogers Hornsby joining this Cubs collection. Recall that Hornsby was the genial manager of the Cubs in the early thirties. Billy Herman said “I broke in with the Cubs under Hornsby in 1931. He ignored me completely, and I figured it was because I was a rookie. But then I realized he ignored everybody.”

What could work: The infield are some the best playing in the Municipal League. Hornsby is peerless at second, Banks, Sandberg, Cap Anson, Mark Grace. Other than Hornsby, probably the nicest bunch ever to play. Johnny Roseboro commented that Banks smile was a fake because “Every day of our lives isn’t a good one.” For Banks, it was. Hack Wilson, Billy Williams, and Lou Brock should make the outfield great to watch.

What could fail: Eight pitchers make up the squad. Five starters, a middle reliever, and two good closers. Only one lefty. If they all have exceptional years, they’ll be good. Anything less than that and this squad will suffer. Especially in Wrigley, where when the wind is blowing out we can expect 20 or more runs scored.

Result: 74 -88. Nice guys those Cubbies, but too many stars need to align for this pitching staff to be successful. That said, the offense will be great to watch.

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